plasticization
Making materials pliable
Plasticization is the process of making a material softer and more flexible, typically by adding chemical compounds called plasticizers.
In polymer science, plasticizers work by embedding between molecular chains, reducing rigidity: PVC requires plasticization to become flexible enough for medical tubing.
The term extends to any softening process, including the unwanted softening of materials exposed to certain solvents or conditions.
Monomers bonding into chains
- extrusionPushing through a die
- moldingDecorative architectural edging
- thermoformingShaping softened plastic sheets
- calenderingRoller-smoothing process
compounding · pelletizing · curing · laminating · coating · vulcanization · annealing · granulation
Ability to adapt easily
- malleabilityCapacity for deformation without breaking
- pliabilityAbility to bend easily
- elasticityTendency to resume original form
- softnessYielding to gentle pressure
ductility · workability · bendability · suppleness · stretchability · moldability · elongation · viscosity
Becoming less firm
- reshapingAltering structure or form
- modificationAct of altering something
- alterationAct of modifying
- conversionAct of changing states
Plastic-softening chemical compounds
- citratesSalts of sour-fruit acid
- polymersLarge chain-like molecules
- resinsViscous plant-derived polymers
- PVCChlorinated plastic abbreviation
vinyl · additives · softeners · stabilizers · lubricants · modifiers · monomers · thermoplastics
Industrial product creation
- mass-productionLarge-scale standardized fabrication
- fabricationDeliberately untrue statement
- toolingIndustrial machinery preparation
- productionMaking or generating something
polymerization
Monomers bonding into chains
- extrusionPushing through a die
- moldingDecorative architectural edging
- thermoformingShaping softened plastic sheets
calendering · compounding · pelletizing · curing · laminating · coating · vulcanization · annealing · granulation · casting
flexibility
Ability to adapt easily
- malleabilityCapacity for deformation without breaking
- pliabilityAbility to bend easily
- elasticityTendency to resume original form
softness · ductility · workability · bendability · suppleness · stretchability · moldability · elongation · viscosity · flow
softening
Becoming less firm
- reshapingAltering structure or form
- modificationAct of altering something
- alterationAct of modifying
conversion · reconfiguration · restructuring · swelling · diffusion
phthalates
Plastic-softening chemical compounds
- citratesSalts of sour-fruit acid
- polymersLarge chain-like molecules
- resinsViscous plant-derived polymers
PVC · vinyl · additives · softeners · stabilizers · lubricants · modifiers · monomers · thermoplastics · elastomers
manufacturing
Industrial product creation
- mass-productionLarge-scale standardized fabrication
- fabricationDeliberately untrue statement
- toolingIndustrial machinery preparation
plasticizationhardening
Becoming less soft
rigidification · embrittlement · stiffening · crystallization · curing
plasticizationsolidification
Transition to firm state
setting · freezing · fixation · stabilization · dehydration
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